SIU Report Reveals Alarming Levels Of Harassment And Bullying In Canadian Marine Sector

Alarming statistics recently published by the Seafarers’ International Union of Canada (abbreviated the SIU) indicate that over half of all seafarers working in Canada’s maritime industry have been victims of bullying or harassment at specific career points. SIU Canada released this study, an aggregate of information from a survey carried out in the summer of 2023. All SIU members, who account for most unlicensed sailors in Canada, completed the study.

The data suggests an essential issue in a sector of the economy experiencing a labour shortage. By making the findings public, the SIU wants to encourage industry-wide discourse on preventing harassment at sea and increase interest in the field among new hires. While the report suggests improvements in workplace conditions compared to the past, it stresses that more actions are needed to eradicate the harassment on Canadian vessels.

Workplace harassment requires urgent attention from the industry. While seafaring is one of the rewarding careers, it needs to be ensured that there prevails a healthy and safe environment to tackle retention and recruitment challenges, explained Michael Given, SIU Canada’s President.

The survey reveals that 46% of seafarers and 69% of female seafarers say they have encountered harassment in their careers. Again, 9% of all seafarers, as well as 35% of female seafarers, have said they have experienced sexual harassment. It highlights that a superior had targeted 67% of harassment victims. Almost half of them have not reported the incident. Now, 60% disagreed or were uncertain that their employer extends enough protection against harassment.

In response to the study, SIU Canada agreed to work with businesses, shipowners, and governmental organizations to resolve these problems. In addition, they have promised to put forth great effort on behalf of Canadian sailors to help stop bullying and harassment at sea.

Per the union, stakeholders need to step up their efforts to guarantee that Canadian maritime workers can make a living in a harassment-free and safety-conscious workplace.

Reference: seafarers.ca

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